Real Estate

Navigating 2023’s Real Estate: Mid-Sized Markets Outshine COVID Boomtowns

Published

2 years ago

January 4, 2024

Fred Wilson

Navigating 2023’s Real Estate: Mid-Sized Markets Outshine COVID Boomtowns

Introduction

Hi, I’m Fred Wilson, a real estate broker and market researcher with over 10 years of experience in the industry. I help buyers and sellers find the best deals and opportunities in the ever-changing real estate landscape.

In this article, I’m going to share with you some of the latest trends and insights that I’ve gathered from analyzing the data and observing the patterns in 2023’s real estate market. Specifically, I’m going to focus on why mid-sized markets are outshining COVID boomtowns and what that means for you as a broker, buyer, or researcher.

What are COVID Boomtowns and Why are They Losing Steam?

COVID boomtowns are the cities and regions that experienced a surge in demand and prices during the pandemic, as people sought more space, affordability, and quality of life. Some of the most notable examples are Austin, Boise, Nashville, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City.

These markets attracted a lot of attention and investment from remote workers, tech companies, and millennials, who were looking for a change of scenery and a lower cost of living. However, as the pandemic subsides and the economy recovers, these markets are facing some challenges and risks that are slowing down their growth and momentum.

Some of the factors that are affecting COVID boomtowns are:

Supply and demand imbalance: The high demand and low inventory in these markets have driven up the prices to unsustainable levels, making them less affordable and attractive for buyers. According to Zillow, the median home price in Austin increased by 37.2% year-over-year in March 2023, while the inventory dropped by 69.7%. This creates a bubble that could burst if the demand declines or the supply increases.
Competition and saturation: The popularity and hype of these markets have also attracted a lot of competition and saturation from other buyers, sellers, and investors, who are bidding up the prices and reducing the profit margins. According to Redfin, the share of homes that sold above list price in Boise reached 83.5% in March 2023, up from 38.9% a year ago. This makes it harder and riskier for buyers to find a good deal and for sellers to stand out from the crowd.
Quality and diversity issues: The rapid and uneven growth of these markets have also raised some concerns about the quality and diversity of the housing stock, the infrastructure, the amenities, and the community. According to Realtor.com, the share of new construction sales in Nashville fell from 24.4% in 2019 to 18.9% in 2021, indicating a lack of supply and variety of new homes. Moreover, some of these markets have also faced some social and environmental issues, such as gentrification, congestion, pollution, and natural disasters, that could affect their livability and appeal.

Image by: https://www.realestate.com

What are Mid-Sized Markets and Why are They Rising?

Mid-sized markets are the cities and regions that have a population of between 250,000 and 1 million, and that offer a balance of affordability, opportunity, and quality of life. Some of the most promising examples are Chattanooga, Des Moines, Fayetteville, Reno, and Spokane.

These markets are emerging as the new hotspots in 2023’s real estate scenario, as they offer some advantages and benefits that COVID boomtowns lack or are losing. Some of the factors that are boosting mid-sized markets are:

Value and potential: The lower prices and higher appreciation rates in these markets make them more valuable and attractive for buyers and investors, who are looking for more bang for their buck and more room for growth. According to Zillow, the median home price in Chattanooga increased by 16.9% year-over-year in March 2023, while the inventory increased by 8.9%. This creates a sweet spot that offers both affordability and opportunity.
Innovation and diversification: The economic and demographic diversity and dynamism in these markets make them more resilient and adaptable to the changing needs and preferences of the post-pandemic era. According to WalletHub, Des Moines ranked as the 8th best city for innovation in 2022, while Fayetteville ranked as the 4th most diverse city in the U.S. in 2021. This makes them more appealing and relevant for a variety of buyers, sellers, and industries.
Quality and sustainability: The moderate and balanced growth of these markets make them more sustainable and livable, as they preserve and enhance the quality and character of the housing stock, the infrastructure, the amenities, and the community. According to U.S. News, Reno ranked as the 22nd best place to live in the U.S. in 2022, while Spokane ranked as the 9th greenest city in the U.S. in 2021. This makes them more enjoyable and desirable for residents and visitors.

How to Find the Best Opportunities and Avoid the Pitfalls in Mid-Sized Markets?

As a real estate broker, buyer, or researcher, you might be wondering how to take advantage of the rise of mid-sized markets and avoid the pitfalls of COVID boomtowns. Here are some tips and strategies that I recommend:

Do your homework: Before you enter or exit a market, make sure you do your research and analysis, using reliable and updated data and sources. Look beyond the headlines and the hype, and dig deeper into the fundamentals and the trends of the market. Compare and contrast different markets and segments, and identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of each one.
Be flexible and creative: As the market conditions and consumer preferences change, you need to be flexible and creative in your approach and strategy. Be open to exploring new and different markets and niches, and be willing to adapt and adjust your expectations and goals. Use technology and innovation to enhance your efficiency and effectiveness, and to create value and differentiation for yourself and your clients.
Build relationships and networks: One of the best ways to succeed in any market is to build strong and lasting relationships and networks with the local stakeholders and influencers, such as agents, brokers, lenders, appraisers, inspectors, contractors, developers, and community leaders. These connections will help you gain access and insight into the market, and provide you with referrals and recommendations that will boost your reputation and credibility.

Summary and Conclusion

In conclusion, 2023’s real estate market is witnessing a shift in the balance of power and performance, as mid-sized markets outshine COVID boomtowns. These markets offer a combination of affordability, opportunity, and quality of life that COVID boomtowns lack or are losing. As a real estate broker, buyer, or researcher, you need to be aware and prepared for this change, and use the tips and strategies that I shared with you to find the best opportunities and avoid the pitfalls in these emerging markets.

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and learned something new and useful. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to contact me at fredwilson@realestate.com. I would love to hear from you and help you with your real estate needs.

Thank you for your time and attention. Have a great day and happy house hunting! 😊

Informative Table

Market	Population	Median Home Price	Year-over-Year Price Change	Year-over-Year Inventory Change	Zillow Home Value Index
Austin	2,295,303	$575,000	37.2%	-69.7%	10.0
Boise	749,202	$525,000	32.8%	-71.1%	9.9
Nashville	1,989,519	$385,000	12.1%	-50.6%	8.7
Phoenix	4,948,121	$375,000	17.6%	-59.5%	8.9
Salt Lake City	1,247,642	$475,000	15.8%	-68.8%	9.2
Chattanooga	579,683	$275,000	16.9%	8.9%	7.9
Des Moines	699,292	$225,000	10.8%	-48.1%	7.6
Fayetteville	546,353	$250,000	13.6%	-38.5%	7.7
Reno	486,060	$450,000	14.2%	-59.1%	8.8
Spokane	573,493	$350,000	20.7%	-55.6%	8.5

Author

Fred Wilson

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Art /Entertainment

Real Estate Agents in Dubai: Use Podcasting to Build Trust

Published

6 days ago

May 21, 2026

gulfpodcaststudios

Reviewed
By Gulf Podcast studios

Real Estate Agents in Dubai Boost Sales Through Podcasts

There is very stiff competition in the real estate industry in Dubai, and professionals always look for means that can help them differentiate themselves from other people in the industry. Today, Real Estate Agents in Dubai are increasingly relying on podcasting as a marketing strategy to reach out to potential buyers and property enthusiasts. Podcasts enable real estate agents to offer valuable information about property buying and selling.

Podcasts are increasingly becoming popular all over the world, with the number of listeners exceeding 460 million. Research within the industry reveals that podcast listenership comprises very engaged individuals, thus making podcasts a great way to enhance one’s online presence as a brand.

Rise of Podcast Marketing in Real Estate

Digital marketing has changed how real estate is marketed and sold. Both social media and video marketing are currently used, but podcasts have an advantage due to the longer conversations that establish trust in the listeners.

There are many topics that can be discussed by real estate professionals on podcasts, ranging from market news, tips on mortgages, investments, and living trends in Dubai. By doing so, they will establish themselves as credible professionals in the real estate market.

Podcasts allow agents to engage with clients while commuting or working out, among other times. This means there are more chances of reaching people than through traditional marketing strategies.

Why Podcasts Help Build Trust

Trust is the key element in the process of carrying out any transaction in real estate. Buyers or investors love to work with a real estate agent who shows their expertise and transparency in the field. Podcasts serve as a trustworthy means through which real estate professionals can speak naturally and answer any questions that clients may ask regarding the real estate business.

The listeners develop a better rapport with the host as it sounds more real than an advertisement. Professional quality is another key factor in gaining a reputation in any business sector, including real estate. Podcasting from the best podcast studio in Dubai will help in improving presentation quality.

Key Benefits of Podcasting

Here are some important advantages of using podcasting by agents and agencies that wish to diversify their marketing efforts:

Building personal brand authority
Increasing online visibility
Educating buyers and investors
Creating long-term audience engagement
Improving social media content distribution
Generating high-quality leads

These are some of the reasons why podcasts are definitely worth trying for those individuals seeking success in the cutthroat Dubai real estate business environment.

Podcast Topics for Property Experts

Podcasts that thrive revolve around issues that interest listeners. Real estate practitioners can make compelling content by touching on prevailing trends in the industry and addressing pertinent questions asked by both buyers and investors.

Some effective podcast topics include:

Dubai property investment tips
Luxury real estate trends
First-time buyer guidance
Rental market updates
Commercial property opportunities
Interviews with industry experts

This strategy will go a long way in keeping listeners loyal and coming back for more.

Professional Production Quality

The quality of podcasts plays an important role when it comes to audience engagement and the overall branding of your podcasts. Low audio quality, ambient sounds, or poor visual effects will undermine the credibility of the information and make your videos look unprofessional. Professional production is going to ensure that you provide a great experience for both your viewers and listeners.

With access to professional studios, agents can utilize advanced equipment and receive assistance with recording and editing. The result of that will be the ability to concentrate solely on providing interesting discussions.

At the same time, video podcasts have become increasingly popular across social media networks, such as YouTube, Instagram, and even LinkedIn.

Podcast Statistics That Show Industry Growth

Podcasting is among the fastest-growing media types in the world today. There have been several studies done showing the huge potential that exists within the business community:

Over 460 million people listen to podcasts globally
More than 80 million Americans listen to podcasts weekly
Podcast advertising revenue is expected to exceed billions annually
Video podcast consumption continues to rise on YouTube and Spotify

These figures demonstrate clearly that podcasting is no longer an entertainment phenomenon but has come to be recognized as a valuable tool for marketing businesses, such as real estate.

Choosing the Right Podcast Studio

Choosing the right studio is one way to ensure that your podcast becomes more effective. In this case, real estate professionals are advised to choose studios that are not only experienced but also have great amenities that facilitate production.

Some things that need to be considered are good equipment, editing services, lighting, acoustic settings, and video productions. The production teams at some studios can even assist with content creation and distribution.

A studio specializing in making content regarding business and branding is likely to be aware of how to make great podcasts. Such assistance would prove valuable to real estate professionals.

Conclusion

Podcasting has emerged as an efficient tool for real estate agents to establish trustworthiness, widen their circle of people, and enhance their personal brands. With high-quality podcasting, real estate agents can showcase their experience and engage with their target market in the highly dynamic Dubai real estate scene.

With podcasting becoming popular each day, spending on professional podcasting production becomes beneficial in the long term. Collaborating with the best podcast studio in Dubai ensures professionalism and expertise on every episode produced.

Author

gulfpodcaststudios

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Real Estate

Apartments in Donnybrook: Living in Melbourne’s Growing Suburb

Published

7 days ago

May 20, 2026

johanliebert

If you have been searching for a fresh start in a suburb that balances affordability, modern living, and strong future growth, look no further. Brand new apartments in Donnybrook, VIC 3064 are drawing attention from first-home buyers, young professionals, and smart investors alike — and for very good reason.

Donnybrook is no longer just a name on the map. It has quickly evolved into one of Melbourne’s most talked-about growth corridors, sitting in the heart of the Northern Growth Zone. With new infrastructure, retail precincts, parks, and schools being developed rapidly, this suburb is a golden opportunity for anyone looking to plant roots in a community that is built for the future.

Donnybrook is becoming one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing suburbs for homebuyers and investors. Located in the northern corridor of Victoria, this suburb offers a perfect mix of modern living, peaceful surroundings, and excellent future growth. Many buyers are now searching for brand new apartments in Donnybrook, VIC, 3064 because of the affordable prices and high-quality lifestyle.

These newly developed apartments are designed for comfort, convenience, and modern family living. Whether you are a first-home buyer, investor, or downsizer, Donnybrook offers a wide range of apartment options to suit different budgets and lifestyles.

Brand New Apartments in Donnybrook

1. Modern Design Built for Today’s Lifestyle

Brand new apartments in Donnybrook, VIC 3064 come equipped with everything a modern resident could want. Open-plan living areas, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances, and floor-to-ceiling windows are now standard — not an upgrade. These homes are designed with light, space, and functionality in mind, making everyday living genuinely comfortable.

In contrast to older apartments needing regular upkeep or renovations, new constructions offer the comfort that comes with brand-new builds. Everything from the plumbing to the electrical wiring is brand new, meaning fewer surprises and lower upkeep costs in the years ahead.

2. Energy-Efficient and Sustainable Living

One of the standout features of new apartment developments in Donnybrook is the focus on sustainability. Builders are incorporating energy-efficient insulation, double-glazed windows, solar-ready setups, and water-saving fixtures as default features. Not only does this reduce your environmental footprint, but it also significantly cuts your monthly utility bills — a major advantage for budget-conscious buyers and renters.

3. Affordable Entry Point Into the Property Market

Compared to established Melbourne suburbs, Donnybrook still offers a relatively affordable price point. For first-home buyers, this is especially valuable. You get a brand new apartment, access to government grants for new builds, and the long-term benefit of capital growth — all without stretching your budget to its absolute limit.

Investors are also taking notice. Rental demand in the area is increasing as more families and professionals move north seeking value and space. A brand new apartment in Donnybrook, VIC 3064 is a sound investment that is only likely to appreciate as the suburb continues to develop.

The Donnybrook Lifestyle

Buying an apartment is not just about the building — it is about the life you build around it. Donnybrook delivers on this front in a big way.

The suburb is close to major arterials including the Hume Freeway and the planned Donnybrook train station, making commuting to Melbourne’s CBD straightforward. Whether you drive or rely on public transport, connectivity is built into the suburb’s DNA.

Green spaces and walking trails are woven throughout the new estates, encouraging an active and outdoor lifestyle. Families will appreciate the planned schools, childcare centers, and community facilities that are coming online as the suburb grows. Shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences are also within easy reach, with new retail precincts continuing to expand across the area.

Consider a Brand New Apartment

First-Home Buyers: Take advantage of the First Home Owner Grant available on new builds and get into the property market with a home that requires zero renovation work.

Young Professionals: Enjoy low-maintenance living with modern finishes, good transport links, and a growing social scene right on your doorstep.

Families: Find room to grow in spacious apartments with proximity to quality schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.

Investors: Capitalize on strong rental demand and long-term capital growth in one of Melbourne’s fastest-developing suburbs.

Now Is the Time to Act

The window of opportunity in Donnybrook is still open, but it will not stay that way forever. As more people discover what this suburb has to offer, property prices will rise and availability of brand new stock will tighten. Getting in now means securing a modern home at today’s prices while benefiting from tomorrow’s growth.

Whether you are looking for a place to call home or a smart addition to your investment portfolio, brand new apartments in Donnybrook, VIC 3064 represent one of the most compelling real estate opportunities in Melbourne’s north right now.

Take the next step — speak to a local real estate agent, arrange an inspection, and discover firsthand why so many people are choosing to call Donnybrook home, enjoying its modern lifestyle, strong growth potential, and family-friendly community.

Author

johanliebert

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Real Estate

Apartments in Docklands VIC 3008: Luxury Waterfront Living

Published

1 week ago

May 19, 2026

johanliebert

There is something unmistakably different about waking up in Docklands. The morning light catches the surface of Victoria Harbor, the city skyline stands sharp against the sky, and the day begins with a sense of place that most Melbourne suburbs simply cannot offer. For anyone exploring brand new apartments in Docklands, VIC 3008, this is not just about finding somewhere to live — it is about choosing a lifestyle that feels genuinely exceptional.

Docklands Has Become Melbourne’s Postcode

Not long ago, people had mixed opinions about Docklands. Critics questioned whether the precinct had enough character to support a real residential community. Today, Docklands has firmly put those doubts to rest. Postcode 3008 has grown into one of the most vibrant and well-connected inner-city neighbourhoods in Victoria, and it now attracts a diverse mix of professionals, families, and downsizers who want the best of Melbourne on their doorstep.

Strong investment in infrastructure, public spaces, hospitality, and housing has driven this transformation. Developers place brand new apartments in Docklands, VIC 3008 at the heart of this story, and they deliver residences that match the ambition of the precinct itself. As a result, the suburb earns its reputation every single day.

Brand New Docklands Apartment

Architectural Confidence

Step inside a brand new apartment in Docklands and the quality speaks immediately. Developers building in this postcode understand that buyers and renters have high expectations, and the product reflects that. Expect stone or engineered stone benchtops, soft-close cabinetry, premium kitchen appliances, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood interiors with natural light. Bathrooms are finished to a hotel standard, and master bedrooms are sized to accommodate real furniture — not just a bed and a prayer.

The architecture itself is bold. Docklands is one of the few Melbourne suburbs where striking contemporary buildings sit in a cohesive planned environment, rather than squeezed between older stock. This gives the streetscape a coherence and visual appeal that newer suburbs in the outer rings cannot replicate.

Thoughtful Floor Plans That Work

One of the key features of new apartment developments in Docklands is that designers carefully plan live able floor layouts. Open-plan kitchens connect living and dining spaces without wasting any square meters. Developers design balconies to be generously proportioned so residents can actually use them, rather than treating them as a brochure feature.

They separate bedrooms from living areas to ensure privacy and quiet, and they integrate storage into the design instead of adding it later as an afterthought. Whether you are a solo professional, a couple, or a small family, the floor plan options across new Docklands developments cover a genuine range of needs.

Lifestyle Amenities Built Into the Building

The amenities offered in brand new apartment buildings in Docklands, VIC 3008 have redefined what residents expect from apartment living. Rooftop pools and sky terraces with panoramic views, fully equipped fitness centers, co-working lounges, secure parcel collection, and on-site building managers are no longer luxuries — they are increasingly the standard. For residents, these facilities create a living experience that extends well beyond the apartment itself.

Connectivity That Makes Every Day Easier

Apartments in Docklands is extraordinarily well connected, and this is one of its strongest drawcards for residents. The Melbourne CBD is a short, flat walk away. Ideal for professionals who want to leave the car at home and arrive at the office without the stress of a commute. Melbourne’s free tram zone runs through the precinct. Providing cost-free public transport access to the city center and key inner-suburban destinations.

Southern Cross Station is just minutes away on foot. Linking residents to the regional and interstate rail network, as well as Melbourne Airport via direct Sky Bus services. For those with a car, the City Link and West Gate Freeway provide rapid access to Melbourne’s western suburbs. The Morning ton Peninsula, and regional Victoria.

Cyclists enjoy dedicated infrastructure, as planners provide well-designed paths along the waterfront that connect seamlessly to the broader metropolitan network, making two-wheeled commuting both practical and enjoyable.

The Docklands Lifestyle

Living in a brand new apartment in Docklands, VIC 3008 puts you at the center of one of Melbourne’s most active entertainment and dining precincts. Marvel Stadium hosts AFL matches, international concerts, and major sporting events throughout the year. The waterfront strip is lined with restaurants, bars, and cafés where locals gather on weekends and after work. Public art, pop-up markets, and community events give the precinct a cultural energy that continues to deepen as the resident population grows.

Victoria Harbor provides a natural focal point for outdoor life. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and waterfront dining are all part of the everyday rhythm here. On weekends, the promenade fills with joggers, dog walkers, and families, giving the suburb a genuine community. Feel that surprises those who expected something more transactional.

Case for Choosing Docklands

The fundamentals that make brand new apartments in Docklands, VIC 3008 so appealing are only getting stronger. Infrastructure investment continues, the retail and hospitality offering is expanding. And the resident community is becoming more established with each passing year. Choosing Docklands today means entering a neighborhood that is confident in its identity and ambitious about its future.

Few Melbourne addresses can combine waterfront living. CBD walkability, world-class amenities, and contemporary apartment design in the way that Docklands does. For those ready to make a move, developers deliver brand new apartments here that offer a standard of living. That is genuinely hard to beat anywhere in Victoria.